KCS v6 Aligned Instructions
KCS v6 Aligned is a designation for vendors providing tools (software/systems) or services (consulting and training) that complement or enable Knowledge-Centered Service (KCS) methodology.
Eligibility
- The product or service demonstrates clear and robust support, or enablement, of a maximum of two Practice areas or a key element of the KCS adoption best practices.
- More stringent KCS v6 Verified Tools designation is for tools that currently or could enable all eight KCS practices.
- Examples of tools include but are not limited to:
- Tools that support elements of the Solve Loop: search, capture, structure, improve, reuse
- Functionality that supports the Content Standard Checklist (formerly AQI) or the PAR (Process Alignment Review)
- Reporting and dashboard functionality
- Technology that supports the Evolve Loop capabilities: pattern recognition and data mining
- Examples of services include but are not limited to:
- Assessment
- Design session
- Change management or program management
- Tools evaluation and selection
- Tool customization, configuration, and implementation
- Self-service assessment and design
- Training (if it is not offered as a Consortium workshop by KCS Certified Trainers)
Overview of the Alignment Process
Steps to Get KCS v6 Aligned
- Obtain KCS v6 Practices Certification from the Consortium for Service Innovation.
- The representative from the candidate company who will be conducting the demo tool’s capability or will be providing the definition of services must hold a KCS v6 Practices Certification.
- Complete the KCS v6 Aligned Application form and submit the Application fee.
- Confirm details with representative from Consortium for Service Innovation
- For Tools: complete Self-Assessment Worksheets and email to support@serviceinnovation.org to chedule and complete demo of functionality.
- For Services: Submit materials that demonstrate how the service aligns with the KCS Principles and Practices. For services, this should be a generic statement of work and relevant deliverables. For workshops, this should include the learning objectives, agenda, and presentation materials
- Complete the KCS v6 Aligned Designation form (includes submitting the Designation fee and signing and returning the License Agreement and Logo Usage Style Guide)
- Accept Digital Badge, publish and market KCS v6 Aligned product or service
- Annual Aligned renewal is required (complete renewal form here)
Aligned Vendor Resources
- Credly Badge
- KCS v6 Aligned logo for use on software packaging or marketing materials
- A KCS v6 Aligned Style Guide defining acceptable use of the logo and color information.
- Guidelines for a quote from the Consortium should the vendor wish to issue a press release about attaining KCS v6 Aligned status
- Listing of v6 Aligned products with links to the vendor’s webpage on KCS v6 Aligned Tools or KCS v6 Aligned Services subject to annual renewal process
KCS v6 Aligned Pricing*
Prerequisite: The representative from the candidate company who will be conducting the demo must hold a KCS v6 Practices Certification ($450 exam fee required plus cost varies for optional instructor-led workshop).
Initial Fees: $2,400*
- KCS v6 Aligned Application Fee: $1,200 per tool or program
- Non-refundable
- Valid for 1 year from application payment date
- Processing Self-Assessment
- Technology Demonstration or Service Assessment
- KCS v6 Aligned Designation Fee: $1,200 per tool or program
- Payable when Aligned designation is awarded
- Posting logo & description on KCS v6 Aligned products page
- Annual Update/Renewal for 1 year
Annual Renewal: $500*
- Complete Renewal Application form and submit payment
*plus any applicable taxes